Learning German for Naturalization - What You Need to Know

Federal minimum requirements apply nationwide (B1 speaking / A2 writing). The canton and municipality can set higher requirements - check with your municipality.

In the canton of Thurgau, the requirement is: at least B2 spoken and at least B1 written (Common European Framework of Reference, CEFR).

• Speaking B1 (federal minimum): express yourself coherently, participate in conversations
• Speaking B2 (Thurgau): communicate spontaneously and fluently
• Writing A2 (federal minimum): simple texts and forms
• Writing B1 (Thurgau): write more complex texts

The following language certificates are accepted for naturalization:

• fide language certificate: The official test for migration authorities. Specifically designed for everyday life in Switzerland.
• telc German B1/B2: Internationally recognized and widely used in Switzerland.
• Goethe Certificate B1/B2: Recognized worldwide.

The required level depends on your municipality's regulations. More here: telc, Goethe, or fide - which exam is right?

The path to naturalization starts with the right German course:

1. Placement: Have your current level assessed (free consultation with us)
2. Attend a course: Progress step by step to the level required by your municipality
3. Exam preparation: Prepare specifically for the fide test or another recognized exam
4. Take the exam: Register at an official test center
5. Submit certificate: Submit the certificate to your municipality

The duration depends on your starting level and course intensity. As a rough orientation, if you need to reach B2:

• From A1 to B2: about 12–18 months with regular course attendance
• From A2 to B2: about 9–12 months
• From B1 to B2: about 3–6 months
• Intensive courses: allow faster progress

The more you speak and practice German outside of class, the faster you reach your goal.